“We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.”
Romans 8:22-25 (NIV)
When we look around us, the problems of this world tend to make us groan for the redemption of our bodies. Our eternal alternative begins to look a lot more inviting. If we are not attentive, we will become impatient for it.
Of course, being twenty-first century Americans doesn’t help either. We have been reared in a modern society, with modern conveniences, and instant-gratification attitudes. We do not like to wait. Here is how we think physically: Waiting is boring! Waiting is a waste of time! It is so easy to let these attitudes come over into our spiritual thinking.
But is the spiritual realm, waiting is a part of hope. Hope is filled with faith. Hope is not seen physically. We are saved in hope. We must wait patiently in hope! One day, our redemption will be a reality.
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. While we groan in our spirits for the redemption of our bodies, empower us to patiently wait in hope for it. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN
Let us praise God for his redemption and live in hope,